Wales will be without experienced number eight Taulupe Faletau for their autumn series after he sustained a knee injury.

The British and Irish Lions star, who has earned 109 caps, was forced off just four minutes into Cardiff’s United Rugby Championship win over Edinburgh on Saturday. He has been replaced by uncapped Olly Cracknell of Leicester Tigers.

Cracknell, a former Ospreys player, has impressed in recent seasons with Leicester and was chosen ahead of Ross Moriarty of his former club.

Wales’ autumn fixtures include matches against Argentina on November 9, followed by Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Wales head coach Steve Tandy described losing Faletau, who turns 35 next month, as “hugely disappointing.”

He added: “It’s hugely disappointing to lose Toby to injury as he’s a world-class player. But Olly’s been playing really well for Leicester and we’re excited to add him to the squad.”

Croeso Olly Cracknell

Pob lwc with the recovery Taulupe #CymruAmByth | #QuilterNationsSeries

— Welsh Rugby Union (@WelshRugbyUnion) October 27, 2025